Saudi Arabia reopens e-visa access to citizens of Uzbekistan

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has resumed the issuance of electronic tourist visas for citizens of Uzbekistan via the "VisitSaudi" online platform. This service became accessible again nearly 10 days after the conclusion of the 2025 Hajj season. 

From April to June 9, 2025, e-visa services were temporarily unavailable for citizens of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and several other countries – more than ten in total. While no official explanation was provided by Saudi authorities, unofficial sources attribute the suspension to numerous cases in which citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, originally traveling for Umrah, remained in the country to perform Hajj without the appropriate permits. 

In 2025, more than 1.6 million pilgrims from around the world completed Hajj, including over 15,000 citizens of Uzbekistan. According to Uzbek government regulations, the organization of Hajj trips for Uzbek citizens is permitted only by the Committee on Religious Affairs and the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan. 

Saudi Arabia’s electronic visa system, designed to expand visa accessibility, covers 57 countries. Citizens of Uzbekistan gained access to this system on August 6, 2023. Before that, visas were only obtainable through embassies or licensed travel agencies. 

The Saudi e-visa is a one-year, multiple-entry visa that allows a stay of up to 90 days and permits the performance of Umrah. However, it does not grant the right to perform Hajj, reside in the country permanently, or engage in employment.

In response, Uzbekistan introduced a visa-free regime for Saudi citizens starting January 1, 2023, allowing a stay of up to 30 days provided travelers hold a return ticket or a ticket to a third country.